Which term refers to the number of subordinates directly reporting to a manager?

The term that refers to the number of subordinates directly reporting to a manager is known as the span of control. This concept is crucial in understanding organizational structure and management effectiveness. A wider span of control means that a manager has many direct reports, while a narrower span indicates fewer subordinates under a manager's supervision.

The span of control impacts several aspects of management, including communication, oversight, and decision-making processes within the organization. A larger span can lead to more autonomy for team members and can streamline operations, but it may also dilute a manager’s ability to provide effective guidance. Conversely, a narrower span allows managers to work closely with their subordinates, fostering stronger relationships and potentially better performance but can also increase overhead costs due to a larger number of management positions.

In contrast, the chain of command refers to the formal line of authority in an organization, outlining who reports to whom. Management level indicates the hierarchy within an organization, such as whether a position is entry-level, middle management, or upper management. Hierarchy relates to the organized structure of the organization, detailing rank and roles but does not specify how many individuals report to each manager. Thus, span of control is the specific term that accurately describes the number of direct reports a manager has.